By Janeth Valeriño
www.puertoricowow.com
January 2002

Although he has been away from the island since 1995, when he relocated to the United States, artist Obed Gómez is more in tune with his Puerto Rican heritage than ever before. This is evident in the themes he so colorfully portrays in his paintings. Vibrant images of "Vejigantes," cockfights, and "Jibaritos" convey this talented artist's passion for his ancestral past and traditions.

Obed Gómez is a relatively young artist who, at a very early age, demonstrated an inclination toward drawing. Born Oct. 24, 1966, in Santurce, Puerto Rico, Obed began taking private art classes when he was 11. Later, he enrolled in the Arts Students League in Viejo San Juan, where he further developed his painting and drawing skills. Then, he continued his studies at Andrés Bueso Academy of Arts. After graduating high school, Obed attended Universidad del Sagrado Corazón and obtained a bachelor's in communications with a major in visual arts. In 1995, Obed moved to the States and currently resides in Florida where he works as a graphics designer.

Acrylic on canvas, watercolor, pencil, and ink are the various medias this contemporary artist uses to express himself. A Pablo Picasso aficionado, Obed is influenced by the art movements of impressionism, cubism, and abstract expressionism for the meaningful and powerful messages they transmit. His ethnic background and his love of nature also influence him.

When describing his work, such adjectives as breathtaking, stunning, deep, vibrant, and refreshing are used. Obed refers to his art as energetic, with love, balance, tranquility, and his relationship with God as common themes and Puerto Rican imagery being his favorite. "It fills me with pride to paint themes allusive to my culture. My purpose is to bring fond memories to those Latinos who are far from their country," stated the artist. His ability to translate Puerto Rican culture onto canvas and depict emotions is unbounded. Spectators are drawn to Obed's generous use of lively colors and imagery, which evoke such positive energy.

Thanks to the Internet and his online gallery, www.obedart.com, the artist has been able to create quite a following with Puerto Ricans off the island and lovers of the culture in general. The website features six galleries of magnificent original works that can be yours with a click of a mouse. Obedart.com has received numerous Internet awards, including "Top 100 Art Sites" and "Golden Web Award." His work has been featured in many solo and group exhibitions, such as Historical Society of Central Florida Hispanic Art Exhibit, Orlando, 2001; Puerto Rican Parade Art Exhibit, Orlando, 2000; and Universidad del Sagrado Corazón, Santurce, 1995.

Obed's gallery is right at your fingertips, so take a browse and see what so many are raving about. For a final note, Obed offers this message to the world: "Put ourselves aside for a minute and look at the other's situation. Live in peace and in consideration with all living things."